First Start Jitters

[hrosenthal]

I'm wrapping up the gauges this week and getting ready to start my engine for the fist time.

Is there a protocol for how to deal with the fuel that's in the tank after that?

There is still quite a bit of work to be done after the first start and I'm concerned about leaving fuel in the car while still working on it. Especially since the fuel cap isn't installed or grounded yet.

[skullandbones]

Since it wasn't long before I go karted after the first start (must have done things in a different order), I left it in. I capped it off on the end with a heavy rubber patch and braced the metal fill hose well. I continued to start and run the engine periodically. However, I did have the ground wire to the frame from the very beginning just run temporarily. Later, I ran it a different and cleaner way. I also had my canister hooked up so there weren't any fumes in the garage. Of course, the fire extinguisher was always in plain sight along with blankets and hose right outside. Good luck,

WEK.

[Bob Cowan]

Cap the filler neck with a plastic bag and a zip tie, duct tape, whatever. Use some tape and copper wire to ground the tank and filler neck. And then put Sta-Bil in the tank to protect your fuel.

[OVCobra]

Agree with Bob...always a good idea to add some Sta-Bil, especially if your fuel has methanol (very common in Canada). As far as grounding, the primary reason, IMO, is to dissipate static generated while filling your tank through the metal filler cap. It won't hurt anything grounding the filler neck but the time it is essential is while pouring fuel in. ALWAYS have a fire extinguisher handy!

[CraigS]

Be sure to get the version of Stabil that says it is for ethanol fuels.